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____________________________ is an acid-alkali neutralization that neutralizes (deactivates) the alkaline residues left in the hair by a hydroxide relaxer and lowers the pH of the hair and scalp.

User Indrajit
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Final answer:

The process described is an acid-alkali neutralization reaction, used to lower the pH of hair and scalp after using a hydroxide relaxer. This step is essential in chemical hair relaxer treatments to neutralize alkaline residues, minimize damage, and restore the hair's normal slightly acidic pH.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement refers to an acid-alkali neutralization reaction, which is the process of neutralizing the alkaline residues in the hair left by a hydroxide relaxer. When you carry out a chemical hair relaxer treatment, the hair's pH is raised significantly to break down the hair's structural bonds. After rinsing out the relaxer, an acid-alkali neutralization step is needed to lower the hair and scalp's pH.

This neutralization involves the addition of an acidic product to the hair, which brings the pH down, helping with the reformation of broken bonds and stabillizing the hair's condition. Products used in this step often contain ingredients designed to not only neutralize the alkalinity but also leave the hair in a slightly acidic condition, which is optimal for hair health.

Benefits of Acid-Alkali Neutralization in Hair Treatment:

  • No damage to hair
  • Repair of damage already done to hair
  • Restoration of normal pH levels

User Aposhian
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